Venezuelan authorities detained at least seven journalists in Caracas near the National Assembly during the 29-minute reporting window from 6:45 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. UTC on Jan. 5, 2026, according to posts on X by OrlvndoA, agusan tonetti, and Beadrian. OrlvndoA reported the detentions occurred today, with most journalists captured near the National Assembly, while agusan tonetti described the incidents as kidnappings happening right now in Caracas. Beadrian noted arrests of journalists were recorded in the city, per X posts within the window. Separately, a senior U.S. State Department official stated preparations are underway to reopen the U.S. embassy in Caracas should President Donald Trump decide, according to Washington Post reporter John Hudson on X. Some career diplomats have volunteered for the assignment to chart a new path in U.S.-Venezuela relations, while others refused, viewing it as representing an occupying force, Hudson cited sources as saying. At the United Nations Security Council, Panama stated any attempt to establish a permanent government headed by figures from the repressive apparatus, such as Delcy RodrĂguez, would constitute continuity of the system and not a genuine transition, according to OrlvndoA on X.
